The Corps Marshal of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Dauda Biu, has suggested imposing jail terms on drivers accountable for road accidents.
Biu put forth this proposal following a series of preventable crashes in Oyo, Kano, and Kaduna states.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday, Biu emphasized the FRSC’s call for state governments to prosecute drivers who flout road laws. He highlighted the importance of imposing strict penalties, such as jail time without the possibility of fines, to discourage reckless driving.
The Corps Marshal noted, “We have written to all state governors to help prosecute drivers causing road crashes. We have received a letter from the Kaduna State government of its commitment to prosecute these drivers. We hope that other states will follow suit in directing their Commissioners of Justice or police so that drivers who indulge or violate road rules are prosecuted.
“In fact, we are advocating a jail term without an option of fines, so that by the time we have 50 jailed drivers, everyone will take caution. It is a collective effort.”
The Corps Marshal further disclosed that the FRSC was intensifying collaboration with the judiciary across the 36 states to expedite the trial of drivers involved in road accidents.
Biu noted that offenders would face legal consequences to deter others from driving recklessly.